Jerry Morris Farm, Washington County
Jerry and Lynell Morris own and operate Jerry Morris Farm in Washington County. Established in 1981, the farm produces peanuts, corn, soybeans, cotton, and wheat. Jerry and his wife, Lynell, are key players in the farms’ prosperity. Jerry Morris Farm has implemented BMPs for as long as they can remember. BMPs are a set of guidelines that advise producers on how to manage the water, nutrient, and pesticides they are using to reduce agriculture’s impact on the state’s natural resources. Morris does all he can to protect his land and make it productive. Some BMPs that have been implemented on the property include soil samples and GPS guided fertilizer systems. He also efficiently limits his use of weed control and chemicals to maintain land standards. In addition, Morris uses drainage ditches on his property. By keeping water velocities near drainage structures slow enough, it reduces potential for soil particles to enter the drainage system. These practices ensure that their land will remain productive and viable for future generations. Morris is involved in his community as a trustee and choir member at the Piney Grove Freewill Baptist Church. He attends field days and workshops to learn about new methods and enjoys old antique tractors and equipment. He participates in the local “Plow Day”, where individuals can bring their tractors and plows. Morris enjoys farming even though it is hard work and there are things you may not be able to control. When asked why he thinks it is important to protect our environment, Morris responded, “It is important not to overuse chemicals and to rotate crops to keep your land in best condition for future crops. Naturally, this helps yields and profits.”
